GOVERNMENTS should only come to power through the ballot, not the bullet nor through deal-making and horse-trading.
Here we are again on the cusp of yet another likely change of government, ironically to replace one that also wasn’t voted in by the people.
But since this is within our Federal Constitution, it is perfectly legal. Just that what is legal does not necessarily mean it is ethical.
If there is a precedent, how are we going to condemn the impending move? Isn’t the argument that two wrongs make a right a mere fallacy of relevance?
This debate on the legitimacy of the right to rule aside, the bigger concern is the welfare and well-being of the people and the country.
It would be downright hypocritical to welcome and legitimise one and condemn the other.
Should the country be dragged through a snap general election during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Much has been sacrificed on the altar of political expediency, and to what end? We are no closer to a more dynamic and close-knit society than we were before.
There is much to be learned from our past on how a ruling coalition of six decades was voted out by the people.
One general election before its ouster, Barisan Nasional scrapped through with a simple majority. The ashen-faced head of the coalition vowed an inclusive approach and called for reconciliation.
However, the more partisan leaders in its ranks went on a different direction. They sent subtle messages to the most parochial among their supporters into showing disdain for others.
Thank goodness that episode was over. The question of us falling back to such lows nevertheless remains.
If at all the next government in waiting takes it place in office, it should not take the country down that slippery slope. And if it doesn’t, the current one should pay heed to the lessons of the past.
